Wichita Culinary Institutions

While new restaurants seem to open in Wichita, Kansas, every day, you can still find some old classics serving up great meals. When you’re heading out and looking for some delicious food and a little history, consider going to one of these top culinary institutions.

Livingston’s

Andy Livingston first opened Livingston’s in 1910. At that time, the small cafe served hamburgers for a nickel and T-bone steaks for a dime. Today, even though the price has gone up, you can still get a juicy burger at Livingston’s. The restaurant is open for breakfast and lunch, and it offers a variety of casual and fresh meals. For breakfast, you’ll find popular options like homemade biscuits and gravy, breakfast burritos, waffles, and French toast. For lunch, consider the Reuben, grilled turkey club, or the daily special.

Bomber Burger

When you want to sink your teeth into one of the best burgers in Wichita, you need to go to Bomber Burger. First opened in 1951, all the patties at Bomber Burger are formed by hand using Kansas Angus beef. The patties weigh in at almost a full pound, making them some of the largest you can get in the area. The restaurant then uses its own custom seasoning mix to add the perfect amount of flavor to the beef. Along with your traditional hamburger and cheeseburger, Bomber Burger also offers a bacon cheeseburger, double cheeseburger, and more.

Old Mill Tasty Shop

Since 1932, people have been coming to the Old Mill Tasty Shop to enjoy soups, sandwiches, salads, and ice cream specialties at the old-fashioned soda fountain counter. In fact, patrons love the Old Mill Tasty Shop so much, they threatened to chain themselves to the building when the city was discussing building a new arena where the restaurant sits. Thankfully, it never came to that. When you stop by for lunch, consider getting the club, tuna melt, or barbecue beef brisket. Make sure you save room for one of the floats, sundaes, or malts.

Savute’s Italian Ristorante

Savute’s Italian Ristorante opened in 1943, making it the oldest Italian restaurant in Wichita. When you’re in the mood for an authentic Italian meal for dinner, this is the place to go to. You’ll find all your favorites on the menu, including spaghetti and meatballs, baked lasagna, and chicken Marsala. You can take a seat in the main seating area to check out the unique collection of aircraft memorabilia, or you can head out to the patio for some outdoor dining.

Calvin’s Hamburger Haven

Calvin’s Hamburger Haven first opened its doors in 1952, and it quickly became a popular hangout spot for teenagers. Although it had to change locations once to make room for a new convenience store, longtime regulars still like to visit for delicious burgers and other sandwiches. Be sure to stop by for lunch to enjoy a hamburger cooked on the original and well-seasoned grill.

No matter what type of cuisine you’re in the mood for, you know you’ll find a great meal when you check out one of these top culinary institutions in Wichita.

Photo via Flickr by Navin75 | Licensed under cc BY-SA 2.0

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